The 11-year-old took out a competition sponsored by the Lions Club of Young to emphasize the importance of world peace to young people in all countries.

“I believe there should be peace in all cultures and civil rights for everyone,” Lily said.

The poster was judged and selected by four Lions Club members for its originality, artistic merit and portrayal of the contest theme ‘The Future of Peace.’

The Lions Club of Young President, Stuart Freudenstein and Peace Poster Contest Chairperson, Heather Bailey, were impressed by the attitude of Murringo Public School Principal, Kaelene Neville in her willingness to involve her 11-13-year-old students in the contest.

“While Murringo Public School is a small school the six students who participated did their school proud,” Mrs Bailey said.

“Being able to provide students with the opportunity to share their visions of peace is wonderful,” Mr Fruedenstein said.

Lily’s poster will advance to face stiff competition through the district, multiple district and international rounds of competition. One grand prize winner and 23 merit award winners will be selected. The grand prize includes a cash award of US$5000 plus a trip for the winner and two family members to an award ceremony held in the USA.

A local ceremony was held at Murringo Public School on Friday November 3 where Mr Freudenstein and Mrs Bailey spoke to all contestants and presented Lily with her Achievement Award plus a Certificate of Appreciation to the School for their participation in the contest.

“I do hope other local schools will come on board with this very worthwhile contest next year,” Mrs Bailey said.

“After all, the younger generation have so many great ideas on how our world can unite in peace. We should listen to them.”

While the Peace Poster Contest has been running for 30 years, this is the first year the Lions Club of Young has engaged in this very worthwhile project.

To find out more about this initiative visit www.lionsclub.org.